US11460368B2 - Fuel, communications, and power connection systems and related methods - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of systems and methods for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a hydraulic fracturing unit of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units are disclosed and may include a fuel line connection assembly configured to be connected to the first hydraulic fracturing unit and to supply fuel from a fuel source to a gas turbine engine connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit. A system also may include a communications cable assembly configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and to enable data communications between the hydraulic fracturing unit and a data center or another hydraulic fracturing unit. A system further may include a power cable assembly configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and to convey electric power between the hydraulic fracturing unit and a remote electrical power source or the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/929,708, filed May 18, 2020, titled “FUEL, COMMUNICATIONS, AND POWER CONNECTION SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/900,100, filed Sep. 13, 2019, titled “ON BOARDING HOSES AND ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS,” U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/900,112, filed Sep. 13, 2019, titled “FUEL LINE CONNECTION SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR SAME,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/704,401, filed May 8, 2020, titled “FUEL, COMMUNICATIONS, AND POWER CONNECTION SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS,” the entire disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and/or conveying electric power to machines, and more particularly, to systems and methods for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and/or conveying electric power to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units.

BACKGROUND

Fracturing is an oilfield operation that stimulates production of hydrocarbons, such that the hydrocarbons may more easily or readily flow from a subsurface formation to a well. For example, a fracturing system may be configured to fracture a formation by pumping a fracking fluid into a well at high pressure and high flow rates. Some fracking fluids may take the form of a slurry including water, proppants, and/or other additives, such as thickening agents and/or gels. The slurry may be forced via one or more pumps into the formation at rates faster than can be accepted by the existing pores, fractures, faults, or other spaces within the formation. As a result, pressure builds rapidly to the point where the formation fails and begins to fracture. By continuing to pump the fracking fluid into the formation, existing fractures in the formation are caused to expand and extend in directions farther away from a well bore, thereby creating flow paths to the well bore. The proppants may serve to prevent the expanded fractures from closing when pumping of the fracking fluid is ceased or may reduce the extent to which the expanded fractures contract when pumping of the fracking fluid is ceased. Once the formation is fractured, large quantities of the injected fracking fluid are allowed to flow out of the well, and the production stream of hydrocarbons may be obtained from the formation.

A fracturing system includes a large number of separate components required for executing a fracturing operation, each of which must be transported to the fracturing site in an at least partially disassembled state, assembled, and provided with a supply of fuel and electricity for operation, as well as data communications links for controlling the operation. Providing fuel delivery lines, communications links, and electric power to and between the numerous components when setting-up the fracturing operation requires a significant number of skilled personnel, numerous tools, and a substantial amount of time, all contributing significantly to the cost of the fracturing operation. Following completion of the fracturing operation, the components must be broken-down and transported from the fracturing site to another fracturing site. Thus, significant time and cost are involved with setting-up and tearing-down the fracturing operation. In addition, depending on the requirements of a particular operation and the site on which it occurs, different a fracturing operations may require different components and arrangements, which may add complexity to setting-up and tearing-down the fracturing operation, further adding to the time and costs associated with the fracturing operation.

Accordingly, it can be seen that a need exists for systems and methods that provide greater efficiency when setting-up and tearing-down components associated with a fracturing operation. The present disclosure may address one or more of the above-referenced drawbacks, as well as other possible drawbacks.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is generally directed to systems and methods for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and/or conveying electric power to machines, and more particularly, to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units associated with a hydraulic fracturing system. For example, in some embodiments, a fuel line connection assembly for providing flow communication between a fuel source and a first gas turbine engine of a plurality of gas turbine engines may include a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end. The fuel line connection assembly may further include an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with the fuel source, and an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line. The fuel line connection assembly may further include a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and the first gas turbine engine, and a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow. The valve may be configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine. The fuel line connection assembly may be configured to one of: (1) provide flow communication between a second gas turbine engine of the plurality of gas turbine engines upstream of the first gas turbine engine and a third gas turbine engine of the plurality of gas turbine engines downstream of the first gas turbine engine; or (2) provide flow communication solely between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine.

According some embodiments, a fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to a plurality of gas turbine engines connected to a plurality of pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system may include a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies. The fuel line connection assemblies may include a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end. The fuel line connection assembly may also include an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with the fuel source, and an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line. The fuel line connection assembly may also include a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and the first gas turbine engine, and a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow. The valve may be further configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine. A first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies may be in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly. A second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies may be in flow communication with one of an outlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly or a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly.

According to some embodiments, a method for pressure testing at least a portion of a fuel delivery system for supplying fuel from a fuel source to a plurality of gas turbine engines may include causing a first valve to be in an open condition. The first valve may be configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and a first gas turbine engine of the plurality of gas turbine engines. The method may further include causing a second valve to be in a closed condition. The second valve may be configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between a filter configured to filter one or more of particulates or liquids from fuel and the first gas turbine engine. The method may further include causing a third valve to be in an open condition. The third valve may be configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between a pressure source and the filter. The method may further include increasing pressure via the pressure source in the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system, and monitoring a signal indicative of pressure in the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system. The method may also include, based at least in part on the signal, determining whether the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system has a leak.

According to some embodiments, a system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a hydraulic fracturing unit associated with a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units may include a fuel line connection assembly configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and to supply fuel from a fuel source to a first gas turbine engine connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit. The fuel line connection assembly may include a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end. The fuel connection assembly may also include a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and the first gas turbine engine. The fuel line connection assembly may be configured to one of: (1) provide flow communication between one of the fuel source or a second gas turbine engine of the plurality of the hydraulic fracturing units upstream of the first gas turbine engine and a third gas turbine engine of the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units downstream of the first gas turbine engine; or (2) provide flow communication solely between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine. The system may also include a communications cable assembly configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and to enable data communications between the hydraulic fracturing unit and one of a data center remote from the hydraulic fracturing unit or a second hydraulic fracturing unit of the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units. The communications cable assembly may include a length of communications cable and a communications cable storage apparatus configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit, to store the length of communications cable when not in use, and to facilitate deployment of at least a portion of the length of communications cable for connection to the one of the data center or the second hydraulic fracturing unit. The system may also include a power cable assembly configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and to convey electric power between the hydraulic fracturing unit and one or more of a remote electrical power source or one or more of the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units. The power cable assembly may include a length of power cable and a power cable storage apparatus configured to be connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit, to store the length of power cable when not in use, and to facilitate deployment of at least a portion of the length of power cable for use.

According to some embodiments, a hydraulic fracturing unit may include a chassis, a pump connected to the chassis and configured to pump a fracturing fluid, and a first gas turbine engine connected to the chassis and configured to convert fuel into a power output for operating the pump. The hydraulic fracturing unit may also include a system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of the hydraulic fracturing unit. The system may include a fuel line connection assembly connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to supply fuel from a fuel source to the first gas turbine engine connected to the chassis. The fuel line connection assembly may include a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end. The fuel line connection assembly may also include a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and the first gas turbine engine. The fuel line connection assembly may be configured to one of: (1) provide flow communication between one of the fuel source or a second gas turbine engine of a second hydraulic fracturing unit upstream of the first gas turbine engine and a third gas turbine engine of a hydraulic fracturing unit downstream of the first gas turbine engine; or (2) provide flow communication solely between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine. The system may also include a communications cable assembly connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to enable data communications between the hydraulic fracturing unit and one of a data center remote from the hydraulic fracturing unit or an additional hydraulic fracturing unit. The communications cable assembly may include a length of communications cable and a communications cable storage apparatus connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to store the length of communications cable when not in use and to facilitate deployment of at least a portion of the length of communications cable for connection to the one of the data center or the another hydraulic fracturing unit. The system may also include a power cable assembly connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to convey electric power between the hydraulic fracturing unit and one or more of a remote electrical power source or one or more additional hydraulic fracturing units. The power cable assembly may include a length of power cable and a power cable storage apparatus connected to the hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to store the length of power cable when not in use and facilitate deployment of at least a portion of the length of power cable for use.

According to some embodiments, a hydraulic fracturing system may include a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units. The hydraulic fracturing system may include a main fuel line configured to supply fuel from a fuel source to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units. The hydraulic fracturing system may also include a first hydraulic fracturing unit including a chassis, a pump connected to the chassis and configured to pump fracturing fluid, and a first gas turbine engine connected to the chassis and configured to convert fuel into a power output for operating the pump. The hydraulic fracturing system may also include a system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of the first hydraulic fracturing unit. The system may include a fuel line connection assembly connected to the first hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to supply fuel from the fuel source to the first gas turbine engine. The fuel line connection assembly may include a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end. The manifold line may be configured to provide at least a portion of a flow path for supplying fuel to the first gas turbine engine. The fuel line connection assembly may be configured to one of: (1) provide flow communication between one of the main fuel line or a second gas turbine engine of a second hydraulic fracturing unit upstream of the first gas turbine engine and a third gas turbine engine of a third hydraulic fracturing unit downstream of the first gas turbine engine; or (2) provide flow communication solely between the main fuel line and the first gas turbine engine. The system may also include a communications cable assembly including a length of communications cable connected to the first hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to enable data communications between the first hydraulic fracturing unit and one of a data center remote from the first hydraulic fracturing unit or one or more additional hydraulic fracturing units of the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units. The system may also include a power cable assembly including a length of power cable connected to the first hydraulic fracturing unit and configured to convey electric power between the first hydraulic fracturing unit and one or more of a remote electrical power source or one or more additional hydraulic fracturing units of the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units. The hydraulic fracturing system may also include a data center configured to one or more of transmit communications signals or receive communications signals. The communications signals may include data indicative of operation of one or more of the plurality of hydraulic fracturing units.

Still other aspects, embodiments, and advantages of these exemplary embodiments and embodiments, are discussed in detail below. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing information and the following detailed description provide merely illustrative examples of various aspects and embodiments, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects and embodiments. Accordingly, these and other objects, along with advantages and features of the present invention herein disclosed, will become apparent through reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and can exist in various combinations and permutations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the detailed description, serve to explain principles of the embodiments discussed herein. No attempt is made to show structural details of this disclosure in more detail than can be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the embodiments discussed herein and the various ways in which they can be practiced. According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings can be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example fuel delivery system for supplying fuel to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units, including a detailed schematic view of an example fuel line connection assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2A is a schematic view of an example fuel line connection assembly in an example first condition for operation of a gas turbine engine according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2B is a schematic view of the example fuel line connection assembly shown inFIG. 2A in an example second condition during an example pressure testing procedure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example fuel line connection assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example fuel delivery system for supplying fuel to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing another example fuel delivery system for supplying fuel to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a further example fuel delivery system for supplying fuel to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing another example fuel delivery system for supplying fuel to a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an example method for pressure testing at least a portion of an example fuel delivery system for supplying fuel from a fuel source to a plurality of gas turbine engines according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a further example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing another example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a further example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing another example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a further example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing another example system for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality of hydraulic fracturing units according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of an example quick connect coupling for coupling two fuel lines to one another shown in an uncoupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the example quick connect coupling shown inFIG. 17A shown in a coupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of another example quick connect coupling for coupling two fuel lines to one another shown in an uncoupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example communications coupling for a communications cable according to embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an example power coupling for coupling a power cable shown in an uncoupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings in which like numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, the following description is provided as an enabling teaching of exemplary embodiments, and those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes can be made to the embodiments described. It also will be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the embodiments described can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the embodiments without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the embodiments described are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the embodiments and not in limitation thereof.

The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As used herein, the term “plurality” refers to two or more items or components. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” and “involving,” whether in the written description or the claims and the like, are open-ended terms, i.e., to mean “including but not limited to,” unless otherwise stated. Thus, the use of such terms is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, and equivalents thereof, as well as additional items. The transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of,” are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, with respect to any claims. Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish claim elements.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an examplefuel delivery system10 for supplying fuel to a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12, including a detailed schematic view of an example fuelline connection assembly14 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Thefuel delivery system10 may be part of ahydraulic fracturing system16 that includes a plurality (or fleet) ofhydraulic fracturing units12 configured to pump a fracking fluid into a well at high pressure and high flow rates, so that a subterranean formation fails and begins to fracture in order to promote hydrocarbon production from the well.

In some examples, one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may include directly driven turbine (DDT) pumping units, in which pumps18 are connected to one or more gas turbine engines (GTEs)20 that supply power to therespective pump18 for supplying fracking fluid at high pressure and high flow rates to a formation. For example, aGTE20 may be connected to arespective pump18 via a reduction transmission connected to a drive shaft, which, in turn, is connected to an input shaft or input flange of arespective reciprocating pump18. Other types of GTE-to-pump arrangements are contemplated. In some examples, one or more of theGTEs20 may be a dual-fuel or bi-fuel GTE, for example, capable of being operated using of two or more different types of fuel, such as natural gas and diesel fuel, although other types of fuel are contemplated. For example, a dual-fuel or bi-fuel GTE may be capable of being operated using a first type of fuel, a second type of fuel, and/or a combination of the first type of fuel and the second type of fuel. For example, the fuel may include compressed natural gas (CNG), natural gas, field gas, pipeline gas, methane, propane, butane, and/or liquid fuels, such as, for example, diesel fuel (e.g., #2 Diesel), bio-diesel fuel, bio-fuel, alcohol, gasoline, gasohol, aviation fuel, etc. Gaseous fuels may be supplied by CNG bulk vessels, a gas compressor, a liquid natural gas vaporizer, line gas, and/or well-gas produced natural gas. Other types and sources of fuel are contemplated. The one or more GTEs20 may be operated to provide horsepower to drive via a transmission one or more of thepumps18 to safely and successfully fracture a formation during a well stimulation project.

Although not shown inFIG. 1, thehydraulic fracturing system16 may include a plurality of water tanks for supplying water for a fracking fluid, one or more chemical tanks for supplying gels or agents for adding to the fracking fluid, and a plurality of proppant tanks (e.g., sand tanks) for supplying proppants for the fracking fluid. Thehydraulic fracturing system16 may also include a hydration unit for mixing water from the water tanks and gels and/or agents from the chemical tank to form a mixture, for example, gelled water. Thehydraulic fracturing system16 may also include a blender, which receives the mixture from the hydration unit and proppants via conveyers from the proppant tanks. The blender may mix the mixture and the proppants into a slurry to serve as fracking fluid for thehydraulic fracturing system16. Once combined, the slurry may be discharged through low-pressure hoses, which convey the slurry into two or more low-pressure lines in afrac manifold24, as shown inFIG. 1. Low-pressure lines in thefrac manifold24 feed the slurry to the plurality ofpumps18 shown inFIG. 1 through low-pressure suction hoses.

FIG. 1 shows an examplefuel delivery system10 associated with a plurality, or fleet, of examplehydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure, identified as12a,12b,12c,12d,12e,12f,12g, and12h, although fewer or morehydraulic fracturing units12 are contemplated. In the example shown, each of the pluralityhydraulic fracturing units12 includes aGTE20, identified respectively as20a,20b,20c,20d,20e,20f,20g, and20h. Each of theGTEs20 supplies power for each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 to operate apump18, identified respectively as18a,18b,18c,18d,18e,18f,18g, and18h.

Thepumps18 are driven by theGTEs20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12 and discharge the slurry (e.g., the fracking fluid including the water, agents, gels, and/or proppants) at high pressure and/or a high flow rates through individual high-pressure discharge lines26 into two or more high-pressure flow lines28, sometimes referred to as “missiles,” on thefrac manifold24. The flow from theflow lines28 is combined at thefrac manifold24, and one or more of theflow lines28 provide flow communication with a manifold assembly, sometimes referred to as a “goat head.” The manifold assembly delivers the slurry into a wellhead manifold, sometimes referred to as a “zipper manifold” or a “frac manifold.” The wellhead manifold may be configured to selectively divert the slurry to, for example, one or more well heads via operation of one or more valves. Once the fracturing process is ceased or completed, flow returning from the fractured formation discharges into a flowback manifold, and the returned flow may be collected in one or more flowback tanks.

In the example shown inFIG. 1, one or more of the components of thehydraulic fracturing system16 may be configured to be portable, so that thehydraulic fracturing system16 may be transported to a well site, assembled, operated for a relatively short period of time, at least partially disassembled, and transported to another location of another well site for use. In the example shown inFIG. 1, each of thepumps18 andGTEs20 of a respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12 may be connected to (e.g., mounted on) a chassis30, identified respectively as30a,30b,30c,30d,30e,30f,30g, and30h. In some examples, the chassis30 may include a trailer (e.g., a flat-bed trailer) and/or a truck body to which the components of a respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12 may be connected. For example, the components may be carried by trailers and/or incorporated into trucks, so that they may be easily transported between well sites.

As shown inFIG. 1, the examplefuel delivery system10 may include a plurality of fuelline connection assemblies14, for example, for facilitating the supply of fuel from thefuel source22 to each of theGTEs20 of thehydraulic fracturing system16. In some examples, for example, as shown inFIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3, one or more of the fuelline connection assemblies14 may include amanifold line32 defining aninlet end34, anoutlet end36, and aflow path38 for fuel extending between theinlet end36 and theoutlet end38. In addition, the fuelline connection assemblies14 may include aninlet coupling40 proximate theinlet end34 and configured to be connected to afuel line42 providing flow communication with thefuel source22, and anoutlet coupling44 proximate theoutlet end36 and configured to be connected to an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end36 of themanifold line32, for example, as explained in more detail herein.

For example, as shown inFIG. 1, thefuel delivery system10 may include a fuelline connection assembly14 associated with each of thehydraulic fracturing units12athrough12h. In the example configuration shown inFIG. 1, a firsthydraulic fracturing unit12amay be in flow communication with thefuel source22 via the fuel line42 (e.g., viafuel line42a). Theinlet coupling40 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12amay be coupled to thefuel line42a. Theoutlet coupling44 for the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12amay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a secondhydraulic fracturing unit12b. Similarly, the outlet coupling of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12bmay be coupled to the inlet coupling of a manifold line of a thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12c. The outlet coupling of the manifold line of the thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12cmay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a fourthhydraulic fracturing unit12d.

In the example shown, the first through fourthhydraulic fracturing units12athrough12dmay make up afirst bank46 of thehydraulic fracturing units12, and fifth through eighthhydraulic fracturing units12ethrough12hmay make up asecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, for example, as shown inFIG. 1, a fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12emay be in flow communication with thefuel source22 via the fuel line42 (e.g., viafuel line42b). The inlet coupling of the fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12emay be coupled to thefuel line42. The outlet coupling for the fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12emay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a sixthhydraulic fracturing unit12f. Similarly, the outlet coupling of the sixthhydraulic fracturing unit12fmay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a seventhhydraulic fracturing unit12g. The outlet coupling of the manifold line of the seventhhydraulic fracturing unit12gmay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of an eighthhydraulic fracturing unit12h. The examplefuel delivery system10 shown inFIG. 1 may sometimes be referred to as a “daisy-chain” arrangement.

In this example manner, thefuel source22 may supply fuel to theGTEs20 of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, fuel that reaches the end of thefirst bank46 of thehydraulic fracturing units12 remote from the fuel source22 (e.g., the fourthhydraulic fracturing unit12d) and/or fuel that reaches the end of thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12 remote from the fuel source22 (e.g., the eighthhydraulic fracturing unit12h) may be combined and/or transferred between thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48, for example, via atransfer line50 configured to provide flow communication between thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48. For example, unused fuel supplied to either of thefirst bank46 or thesecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12 may be passed to the other bank of the two banks.

In some examples, theinlet coupling40 and/or theoutlet coupling44 may include a flange configured to be secured to another flange of another manifold line and/or a fuel line. For example, themanifold line32 may be a four-inch schedule40 steel pipe, and theinlet coupling40 and/or theoutlet coupling44 may include a four-inch300 class weld neck flange, although other manifold line types and sizes are contemplated, as well as other coupling types and sizes. In some examples, theinlet coupling40 may include a quick connect coupling configured to connect theinlet end34 of themanifold line32 in a fluid-tight manner with a quick connect coupling (e.g., a complimentary coupling) of an outlet end of another manifold line. In some examples, theoutlet coupling44 may include quick connect coupling configured to connect the outlet end36 of themanifold line32 in a fluid-tight manner with a quick connect coupling of an inlet end of yet another manifold line and/or a quick connect coupling of a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end36 of themanifold line32, for example, to effectively prevent flow through themanifold line32 to anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12 of a commonhydraulic fracturing system16. In some examples, the quick connect coupling may include a quarter-turn quick connect (e.g., a twister locking quick connect) or a safety quick coupler (e.g., transfer-loading safety quick coupling), for example, as disclosed herein with respect toFIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C.

In addition, as shown inFIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3, the fuelline connection assemblies14 may include adistribution line52 connected to themanifold line32 and configured to provide flow communication between themanifold line32 and aGTE20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. In some examples, the fuelline connection assembly14 may also include avalve54 in themanifold line32 or thedistribution line52 and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow. In some examples, thevalve54 may be configured to facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between thefuel source22 and theGTE20. For example, thevalve54 may be configured to change to the closed condition to prevent flow of fuel to the correspondingGTE20, for example, to cease operation of theGTE20 and/or during testing related to portions of thefuel delivery system20.

As shown inFIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3, some examples, of the fuelline connection assembly14 may also include asensor56 disposed in the manifold line32 (e.g., upstream relative to the distribution line52) or thedistribution line52 and configured to generate a signal indicative of pressure associated with flow of fuel to theGTE20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. Thesensor56 may include any transducer configured to generate a signal indicative of pressure in themanifold line32 and/or thedistribution line52. As shown inFIG. 1, some examples of the fuelline connection assembly14 may include apressure gauge58 in flow communication with themanifold line32 downstream of thedistribution line52, for example, configured to provide an indication of the pressure in themanifold line32, for example, for an operator of thehydraulic fracturing system16. Thepressure gauge58 may be any type of gauge configured to generate an indication of the pressure in themanifold line32 downstream of thedistribution line52. In some examples, the indication of pressure may be viewed at a location remote from themanifold line32, for example, at an operations console associated with the hydraulic fracturing operation.

As shown inFIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B, the fuelline connection assembly14 may also include afilter60 disposed in thedistribution line52 between themanifold line32 and theGTE20 and configured to filter one or more of particulates or liquids from fuel in flow communication with theGTE20. For example, as shown inFIG. 3, thefilter60 may include afirst filter60aconfigured to remove particulates from fuel supplied to theGTE20 and asecond filter60b(e.g., a coalescing filter) configured to remove liquids from the fuelline connection assembly14 before fuel reaches theGTE20. This may improve performance of theGTE20 and/or reduce maintenance and/or damage to theGTE20 due to contaminants in the fuel.

As shown inFIG. 1, some examples of the fuelline connection assembly14 may also include asensor62 disposed in thedistribution line52 between thefilter60 and theGTE20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. Thesensor62 may be configured to generate a signal indicative of pressure associated with flow of fuel between thefilter60 and theGTE20. Thesensor56 and/or thesensor62, upstream and downstream, respectively, of thefilter60, may be used to determine a pressure differential across thefilter60, which, if higher than a predetermined pressure, may be an indication that thefilter60 is inhibiting fuel flow through thefilter60, which may be an indication that thefilter60 should be cleaned, serviced, and/or replaced.

In some examples, the fuelline connection assembly14 may be configured to facilitate testing for leaks in at least a portion of thefuel delivery system10 according to some embodiments of the disclosure. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3, the fuelline connection assembly14 may be configured to perform a pressure test to identify leaks in at least a portion of thefuel delivery system10. For example, thevalve54 may be afirst valve54, and the fuelline connection assembly14 may further include asecond valve64 disposed in thedistribution line52 and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow. Thesecond valve64 may be configured to facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between thefilter60 and theGTE20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. The fuelline connection assembly14 may also include atest line66 in flow communication with thedistribution line52 between thefilter60 and theGTE20 and configured to provide flow communication between apressure source68 and thefilter60. In some examples, the fuelline connection assembly14 may also include athird valve70 disposed in thetest line66 and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow. Thethird valve70 may be configured to facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between thepressure source68 and thefilter60. In some examples, the fuelline connection assembly14 may further include afourth valve72 disposed between thepressure source68 and thefilter60 and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow. Thefourth valve72 may be configured to release pressure in thetest line66 between thepressure source68 and thethird valve70, for example as disclosed herein. One or more of thefirst valve54, thesecond valve64, thethird valve70, or thefourth valve72 may be a ball valve, although other types of valves are contemplated.

As shown inFIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3, the fuelline connection assembly14 may also include acontroller74 configured to facilitate pressure testing at least a portion of thefuel delivery system10 and in communication with one or more of thesensors56 and62 configured to generate signals indicative of pressure, one or more of thefirst valve54, thesecond valve64, thethird valve70, or thefourth valve72, and thepressure source68. In some examples, thecontroller74 may be configured to cause operation of one or more of thefirst valve54, thesecond valve64, thethird valve70, or thefourth valve72, and receive one or more signals from one or more of thesensors56 and62. Based at least in part on the one or more signals, thecontroller74 may be configured to determine the presence of a leak in at least a portion of thefuel delivery system14 and/or the fuelline connection assembly14, for example, semi- or fully-autonomously.

For example, as shown inFIG. 3, the fuelline connection assembly14 may include one or more actuators connected respectively to one or more of thefirst valve54, thesecond valve64, thethird valve70, or thefourth valve72 and configured cause one or more of thefirst valve54, thesecond valve64, thethird valve70, or thefourth valve72 to change conditions, for example, between an open condition and a closed condition. As shown, afirst actuator76, asecond actuator78, athird actuator80, and afourth actuator82 are respectively connected to thefirst valve54, thesecond valve64, thethird valve70, and thefourth valve72, and are configured to control the condition of the respective valve. As explained below, by coordinated activation of thefirst actuator76,second actuator78,third actuator80, and/orfourth actuator82, and in some examples, control of thepressure source68, thecontroller74 may be configured to pressure test at least a portion of thefuel delivery system14 and/or one or more of the fuelline connection assemblies14 of thefuel delivery system10, for example, to identify leaks in at least a portion of thefuel delivery system14, including one or more of the fuelline connection assemblies14 of thefuel delivery system10.

For example,FIG. 2A is a schematic view of an example fuelline connection assembly14 in an example first condition for operation of theGTE20 according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown inFIG. 2A, thefirst valve54 and thesecond valve64 are in the open condition, such that fuel from thefuel source22 flows via thefuel line42, into theinlet end34 of themanifold line32 of the fuelline connection assembly14, into thedistribution line52, through thefirst valve54, through thefilter60, and through thesecond valve64 to theGTE20 for combustion to drive thepump18 connected to theGTE20. As shown inFIG. 2A, thethird valve70 and thefourth valve72 are in the closed condition preventing fuel flow through those valves and/or preventing pressure from thepressure source68 from entering the fuelline connection assembly14 through thethird valve70. In some examples, thecontroller74 may be configured to communicate with thefirst actuator76,second actuator78,third actuator80, and/or fourth actuator82 (seeFIG. 3) to cause the respective valves to have the above-noted conditions (e.g., open or closed).

FIG. 2B is a schematic view of the example fuelline connection assembly14 shown inFIG. 2A in an example second condition during a portion of an example pressure testing procedure. As shown inFIG. 2B, to perform a pressure test according to some embodiments of the disclosure, thecontroller74 may be configured to cause thefirst valve54 to be in the open condition, cause thesecond valve64 to be in the closed condition, cause thethird valve70 to be in the open condition, and cause thepressure source68 to increase pressure in one or more of thedistribution line52 or themanifold line32. Thecontroller74 may be further configured to determine the presence of a leak in the fuelline connection assembly14 based at least in part on signals indicative of pressure received from thesensor62 between thepressure source68 and thefilter60 and/or thesensor56 between thefilter60 and thefuel source22. For example, as explained in more detail herein with respect toFIG. 8, thecontroller74 may be configured to cause (or allow) thepressure source68 to cause an increase in pressure (or at least attempt to cause an increase in pressure) in the fuelline connection assembly14 and/or at least portions of thefuel delivery system10. Depending at least in part on whether a threshold pressure in the fuelline connection system14 and/or thefuel delivery system10 can be achieved, how quickly the threshold pressure is achieved, and/or once the threshold pressure is achieved, how long and/or how much of the threshold pressure is maintained, thecontroller74 may be configured to determine whether a leak in the fuelline connection assembly14 and/or thefuel delivery system10 exists, and generate a signal indicative of the leak. In some examples, increasing pressure via thepressure source68 in at least a portion of thefuel delivery system10 and/or fuelline connection assembly14 may include activating a compressor in flow communication with at least a portion of thefuel delivery system10 and/or fuelline connection assembly14 through thethird valve70 and/or opening a valve of a pressurized cylinder in flow communication with at least a portion of thefuel delivery system10 and/or the fuelline connection assembly14 through thethird valve70. In some examples, thepressure source68 may include a cascade gas system, and in some examples, the pressurized gas may include nitrogen, argon, neon, helium, krypton, xenon, radon, and/or carbon dioxide, although other gases are contemplated. In some examples, thecontroller74 may include one or more industrial control systems (ICS), such as, for example, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, distributed control systems (DCS), micro controllers, and/or programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

In some examples, once the testing is complete, or in order to cease the testing, thecontroller74 may be configured to cause thethird valve70 to change from the open condition to the closed condition, for example, via activation of thethird actuator80, and cause thefourth valve72 to change from the closed condition to the open condition, for example, via activation of thefourth actuator82, to thereby close-off thepressure source68 and/or bleed any remaining excess pressure between thepressure source68 and thethird valve70. Thecontroller74 may also cause thesecond valve64 to return to the open condition, for example, via activation of thesecond actuator78, and/or ensure that thefirst valve54 remains in the open condition (seeFIG. 2A), thereby causing thefuel delivery system10 and/or the fuelline connection assembly14 to be in a condition to supply fuel from thefuel source22 for operation of theGTE20.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an examplefuel delivery system10 for supplying fuel to a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown inFIG. 4, a firsthydraulic fracturing unit12amay be in flow communication with thefuel source22 via the fuel line42 (e.g., via afirst fuel line42a). Theinlet coupling40 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12amay be coupled to thefuel line42a. Theoutlet coupling44 for the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12amay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a secondhydraulic fracturing unit12b. Similarly, the outlet coupling of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12bmay be coupled to the inlet coupling of a manifold line of a thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12c. The outlet coupling of the manifold line of the thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12cmay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a fourthhydraulic fracturing unit12d.

In the example shown, the first through fourthhydraulic fracturing units12athrough12dmay make up afirst bank46 of thehydraulic fracturing units12, and fifth through eighthhydraulic fracturing units12ethrough12hmay make up asecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, for example as shown inFIG. 1, a fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12emay be in flow communication with thefuel source22 via the fuel line42 (e.g., via asecond fuel line42b). The inlet coupling of the fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12emay be coupled to thefuel line42b. The outlet coupling for the fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12emay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a sixthhydraulic fracturing unit12f. Similarly, the outlet coupling of the sixthhydraulic fracturing unit12fmay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of a seventhhydraulic fracturing unit12g. The outlet coupling of the manifold line of the seventhhydraulic fracturing unit12gmay be coupled to an inlet coupling of a manifold line of an eighthhydraulic fracturing unit12h. The examplefuel delivery system10 shown inFIG. 4 may sometimes be referred to as a “daisy-chain” arrangement.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing another examplefuel delivery system10 for supplying fuel to a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown inFIG. 5, theinlet end34 of themanifold line32 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12ais connected to anoutlet84 of amain fuel line86a, which is connected to a hub88 (e.g., a fuel hub). Rather than being connected to an inlet end of another manifold line of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12bas inFIG. 4, the outlet end36 of themanifold line32 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12ais connected to a blocking device (not shown) configured to prevent flow from the outlet end36 of themanifold line32 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12a. The inlet ends of the respective manifold lines of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12b, the thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12c, the fourthhydraulic fracturing unit12d, the fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12e, the sixthhydraulic fracturing unit12f, the seventhhydraulic fracturing unit12g, and the eighthhydraulic fracturing unit12h(and/or more hydraulic fracturing units) are connected to thehub88 via respectivemain fuel lines86b,86c,86d,86e,86f,86g, and86h. The outlet ends of the manifold lines of the second through eighthhydraulic fracturing units12bthrough12hare each connected to a blocking device (not shown) configured to prevent flow from the outlet ends of the respective manifold lines. The examplefuel delivery system10 shown inFIG. 5 may sometimes be referred to as a “hub and spoke” arrangement.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a further examplefuel delivery system10 for supplying fuel to a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The example fuel delivery system shown inFIG. 6 is similar to the example fuel delivery system shown inFIG. 5, except that thefuel delivery system10 includes twohubs90aand90b(e.g., fuel hubs). A first one of thehubs90ais connected to thefuel source22 via afirst fuel line42, and asecond hub90bis connected to thefuel source22 via asecond fuel line42b. Thefirst hub90amay supply fuel to one or more (e.g., each) of theGTEs20 of thefirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12, and thesecond hub90bmay supply fuel to one or more (e.g., each) of theGTEs20 of thesecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12. More than two hubs are contemplated. The examplefuel delivery system10 shown inFIG. 5 may sometimes be referred to as a “hub and spoke” arrangement, with two or more hubs.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing another examplefuel delivery system10 for supplying fuel to a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The examplefuel delivery system10 shown inFIG. 7 includes afuel manifold92, and theexample fuel manifold92 receives fuel from thefuel source22 via afirst fuel line42aand asecond fuel line42b, with thefirst fuel line42asupplying fuel to theGTEs20 of thefirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12, and thesecond fuel line42bsupplying fuel for theGTEs20 of thesecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, theinlet end34 of themanifold line32 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12ais connected to a respective outlet of the fuel manifold92 (e.g., afirst bank94aof thefuel manifold92 the or main fuel line). In the example shown, the outlet end36 of themanifold line32 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12ais connected to a blocking device (not shown) configured to prevent flow from the outlet end36 of themanifold line32 of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12a. The inlet ends of the respective manifold lines of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12b, the thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12c, and the fourthhydraulic fracturing unit12dare connected to thefirst bank94aof thefuel manifold92. The outlet ends of the manifold lines of the second through fourthhydraulic fracturing units12bthrough12dare each connected to a blocking device (not shown) configured to prevent flow from the outlet ends of the respective manifold lines. In the example shown inFIG. 7, the inlet ends of the respective manifold lines of the fifthhydraulic fracturing unit12ethrough the eighthhydraulic fracturing unit12hare connected to respective outlets of the fuel manifold92 (e.g., asecond bank94bof thefuel manifold92 or main fuel line). In the example shown, the outlet ends of the respective manifold lines of the fifth through eighthhydraulic fracturing units12ethrough12hare each connected to a blocking device (not shown) configured to prevent flow from the outlet ends of the respective manifold lines of the fifth through eighthhydraulic fracturing units12ethrough12h. In some examples, thefuel manifold92 may be connected to a trailer for portability. The examplefuel delivery system10 shown inFIG. 7 may sometimes be referred to as a “combination” arrangement.

In some examples, the configuration of the fuelline connection assemblies14 may facilitate arranging the hydraulic fracturing units in (1) a “daisy-chain” arrangement, in which fuel passes through each ofmanifold lines32 in a series-type arrangement, (2) a “hub and spoke” arrangement, in which an inlet end of each of themanifold lines32 is connected to a fuel line from a fuel hub or the fuel source and flow from an outlet end is prevented, or (3) a “combination” arrangement, such as the example shown inFIG. 7, which may include connection of the inlet ends of themanifold lines32 to afuel manifold92. Different arrangements may be desirable depending on a number of factors associated with the fracturing operation, and the flexibility of arrangements provided by at least some examples of thefuel delivery system10 may reduce the need for multiple sets of parts to achieve each of the different arrangements. In addition, the couplings provided by themanifold lines32, at least according to some embodiments, may reduce the time and complexity associated with setting-up and/or breaking-down thehydraulic fracturing system16. In some examples, the number and/or types of tools required to set-up and/or break-down thehydraulic fracturing system16 may also be reduced.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of anexample method800 for pressure testing at least a portion of a fuel delivery system for supplying fuel from a fuel source to a plurality of GTEs according to embodiments of the disclosure, illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow graph, which represent a sequence of operations that may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the context of software, the blocks represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular data types. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the methods.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of anexample method800 for pressure testing at least a portion of a fuel delivery system for supplying fuel from a fuel source to a plurality of GTEs, for example, associated with pumps in a hydraulic fracturing system, according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some examples, themethod800 may be performed semi- or fully-autonomously, for example, via a controller. Themethod800 may be utilized in association with various systems, such as, for example, the examplefuel delivery systems10 shown in one or more ofFIG. 1, 2A, 2B, 3-7, or9-16.

Theexample method800, at802, may include causing a first valve to be in an open condition. The first valve may be configured to facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between a fuel source and a GTE of the plurality of GTEs. For example, a controller may be configured to communicate with an actuator to activate the actuator to cause the first valve to be in the open condition, so that flow communication exists between the GTE and the fuel source.

At804, theexample method800 may further include causing a second valve to be in a closed condition. The second valve may be configured to facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between a filter configured to filter one or more of particulates or liquids from fuel and the GTE. For example, the controller may be configured to communicate with an actuator to activate the actuator to cause the second valve to be in the closed condition, so that flow communication between the filter and the GTE is prevented. This may effectively isolate or close-off the GTE from flow communication with the fuel delivery system and/or the remainder fuel line connection assembly (e.g., with the distribution line).

At806, theexample method800 may also include causing a third valve to be in an open condition. The third valve may be configured to facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between a pressure source and the filter. For example, the controller may be configured to communicate with an actuator to activate the actuator to cause the third valve to be in the open condition, so that flow communication exists between the pressure source and the filter.

Theexample method800, at808, may further include increasing pressure via the pressure source in the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system. For example, the controller may be configured to cause the pressure source to increase pressure (or at least attempt to increase pressure) in the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system, for example, to determine whether the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel line delivery system is sufficiently leak-tight for pressure to increase to, and/or hold, a predetermined or threshold pressure for a period of time. In some examples, increasing pressure via the pressure source may include activating a compressor in flow communication with the portion of the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system, and/or opening a valve of a pressurized cylinder in flow communication with the portion of the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system.

Theexample method800, at810, may also include initiating a timer. In some examples, the controller may be configured to initiate a timer and cause the increase (or attempt to increase) the pressure until a predetermined time has elapsed.

At812, theexample method800 may also include monitoring a signal indicative of pressure in the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system. For example, a pressure sensor in flow communication with the fuel line connection system and/or the fuel delivery system may generate one or more signals indicative of the pressure in the assembly and/or system, for example, and the controller may receive the one or more signals and determine whether the pressure increases to the predetermined or threshold pressure.

At814, theexample method800 may further include, based at least in part on the signal, determining whether the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system has a leak. For example, the controller may receive the one or more signals from the sensor indicative of pressure in the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system and, based at least in part on the one or more signals, determine whether a leak exists in the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system. In some examples, this determination may include comparing the pressure in at least a portion of the fuel delivery system at the end of the predetermined time to a predetermined pressure, and determining whether the portion of the fuel delivery system has a leak when the pressure in the portion of the fuel delivery system is less than the predetermined pressure, or the portion of the fuel delivery system does not have a leak when the pressure in the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system is at least the predetermined pressure by the end of the predetermined time. In some examples, if it has been determined that the pressure in the fuel delivery system has reached the predetermined pressure, for example, prior to the end of the predetermined time, the method may include initiating the timer, waiting for a second predetermined time to elapse, and comparing the pressure in the portion of the fuel delivery system at the second predetermined time to the predetermined pressure. If the pressure in the fuel delivery system remains above the predetermined pressure at the end of the second predetermined time, the controller may be configured to determine that the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system does not have a leak.

Theexample method800, at816, if it has been determined that the fuel delivery system has a leak, may also include generating a signal indicative of the leak. For example, if the controller determines that the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system has a leak, the controller may generate an alarm signal indicative of the leak that may be received by personnel at the hydraulic fracturing site, so that remedial measures may be performed. In some examples, the method may be configured to sequentially isolate fuel line connection assemblies associated with respective hydraulic fracturing units and perform a pressure test on each one of the fuel line connection assemblies associated with each of the hydraulic fracturing units. For example, the controller may be configured to cause valves of fuel line connection assemblies to be in a closed condition, so that a fuel line connection assembly being tested can be isolated and the pressure test performed for the isolated fuel line connection assembly. This process may be repeated for one or more of the other fuel line connection assemblies associated with respective hydraulic fracturing units.

Theexample method800, at818, if no leak has been determined at814, may further include ceasing the pressure testing, for example, after one or more of the predetermined times have elapsed and no leaks have been detected by the controller. In addition, once a leak has been detected, for example, at814, themethod800 may also include ceasing the pressure testing. This may include isolating the pressure source from the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system. In some examples, this may include ceasing operation of a compressor, closing a valve on a pressure source, such as a high pressure tank, etc.

At820, theexample method800 may include causing a fourth valve to be in an open condition. The fourth valve may be configured to release pressure in the at least a portion of the fuel delivery system, such as the fuel line connection assembly and/or the test line. The controller may communicate with an actuator associated with the fourth valve to cause the fourth valve to be in the open condition, thereby releasing pressure increased during the pressure testing from the fuel line connection assembly and/or the fuel delivery system.

At822, theexample method800 may further include causing the third valve to be in the closed condition and causing the second valve to be in the open condition. For example, the controller may be configured to communicate with actuators associated with the second and third valves and cause the second valve to be in the open condition so that fuel from the fuel source may be supplied to the GTE and cause the third valve to be in the closed condition to prevent fuel from passing to the test line and/or the pressure source during operation of the GTE.

In some examples, once a pressure test has been initiated, the first valve will be caused to be in the open condition for example, to allow pressure from the pressure source to fill at least a portion of the fuel delivery system (e.g., the entire fuel delivery system, including one or more fuel lines from the fuel source). The second valve will be caused to be in the closed condition and isolate the GTE from the fuel delivery system. The third valve will be caused to be in the open condition to allow pressure from the pressure source the fill the fuel delivery system and build pressure therein. The fourth valve will be caused to be in the closed condition to allow pressure to build (or attempt to build) in the fuel delivery system.

Once the first, second, third, and fourth valves are in the above-noted conditions, the pressure source will be activated to build (or attempt to build) pressure in the fuel delivery system. The sensors will generate signals indicative of the pressure in the fuel delivery system, which will be received by the controller. The controller will initiate a timer, and the pressure source will attempt to increase the pressure in the fuel delivery system to a predetermined threshold pressure for a predetermined time. The threshold pressure and/or the predetermined time may be set by an operator and/or automatically controlled via the controller according to a program. If the pressure source is unable to cause the pressure in the fuel delivery system to achieve the pressure threshold before the predetermined time has elapsed, the controller may cause the pressure source to discontinue attempting to increase the pressure in the fuel delivery system (e.g., the controller will cease operation of a compressor serving as the pressure source). The controller may also generate a signal and/or an alarm to notify an operator of a possible leak in the fuel delivery system.

If, however, the pressure in the fuel delivery system reaches the predetermine threshold pressure, the controller may cause the pressure source to discontinue attempting to increase the pressure in the fuel delivery system. The controller may also initiate a new timer and monitor the pressure in the fuel delivery system for a second predetermined time (e.g., five minutes). If the pressure in the fuel delivery system remains stable for the duration of the second predetermined time, the controller may determine that no leaks are present in the fuel delivery system, and the pressure test may be deemed successful. If the pressure drops, for example, greater than a predetermined rate (e.g., greater than 5% during the second predetermined time), the controller may be configured to generate a signal and/or an alarm to notify an operator of a possible leak in the fuel delivery system.

At the end of the pressure test, the controller (and/or the operator) may bleed pressure from the fuel delivery system, causing the fourth valve to change to the open condition to vent the pressure from the fuel delivery system. After pressure has been bled from the fuel delivery system, the controller may cause the first, second, third, and fourth valves to change to the condition consistent with operation of the hydraulic fracturing system, for example, such that the first valve is in the open condition to allow fuel to flow from the pressure source to the filter, the second valve is in the open condition to allow fuel to flow from the filter to the GTE, such that the third valve is in the closed condition to prevent fuel from flowing to the pressure source or to the fourth valve, and such that the fourth valve is in the closed condition, so that if another pressure test is commenced, the fourth valve will prevent bleeding of the pressure from the pressure source.

It should be appreciated that subject matter presented herein may be implemented as a computer process, a computer-controlled apparatus, a computing system, or an article of manufacture, such as a computer-readable storage medium. While the subject matter described herein is presented in the general context of program modules that execute on one or more computing devices, those skilled in the art will recognize that other implementations may be performed in combination with other types of program modules. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, and other types of structures that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.

Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that aspects of the subject matter described herein may be practiced on or in conjunction with other computer system configurations beyond those described herein, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, handheld computers, mobile telephone devices, tablet computing devices, special-purposed hardware devices, network appliances, and the like.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of an examplehydraulic fracturing system16 including anexample system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theexample system100 shown inFIG. 9 may sometimes be referred to as a “daisy-chain” arrangement. In the example shown inFIG. 9, thesystem100 includes amain fuel line86 configured to supply fuel from afuel source22 to the plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12. Each of the examplehydraulic fracturing units12 includes a chassis30 (e.g., including a trailer and/or a truck body), apump18 connected to the chassis30, and aGTE20 connected to the chassis30 and configured to convert fuel into a power output for operating thepump18. In the example shown, thehydraulic fracturing units12 are arranged into afirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12 and asecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12, and themain fuel line86 includes a firstmain fuel line86aconfigured to supply fuel to thefirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12 and a secondmain fuel line86bconfigured to supply fuel to thesecond bank48 of the hydraulic fracturing units.

In theexample system100 shown in inFIG. 9, a fuelline connection assembly14 is provided for each of the hydraulic fracturing units to supply fuel from thefuel source22 to each of theGTEs20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12. The respective fuelline connection assemblies14 may include amanifold line32 defining aninlet end34, anoutlet end36, and aflow path38 for fuel extending between theinlet end34 and the outlet end36 (see, e.g.,FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3). Themanifold line32 may be configured to provide at least a portion of a flow path for supplying fuel to afirst GTE20 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. One or more of the fuelline connection assemblies14 may be configured to provide flow communication between themain fuel line86 or another GTE20 (relative to thefirst GTE20 associated with the fuel line connection assembly14) of anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12 upstream of thefirst GTE20, and anotheradditional GTE20 of another additionalhydraulic fracturing unit12 downstream of thefirst GTE20.

For example, as shown inFIG. 9, the fuelline connection assembly14 associated with afirst GTE20aof a respective firsthydraulic fracturing unit12aincludes a firstmanifold line32ahaving an inlet end configured to be in flow communication with the firstmain fuel line86aand an outlet end configured to be in flow communication with an inlet end of amanifold line32bof a secondhydraulic fracturing unit12bdownstream of the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12a. The fuelline connection assembly14 associated with asecond GTE20bof the respective secondhydraulic fracturing unit12bincludes thesecond manifold line32bhaving the inlet end configured to be in flow communication with the outlet end of the firstmanifold line32aof the firsthydraulic fracturing unit12aupstream of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12b, and an outlet end configured to be in flow communication with an inlet end of amanifold line32cof a thirdhydraulic fracturing unit12cdownstream of the secondhydraulic fracturing unit12b. In some examples, this pattern may be repeated throughout thefirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12athrough12d, and again throughout thesecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12ethough12h.

As shown inFIG. 9, in some examples, fuel that reaches the end of thefirst bank46 of thehydraulic fracturing units12 remote from thefuel source22 and/or fuel that reaches the end of thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12 remote from thefuel source22 may be combined and/or transferred between thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48, for example, via atransfer line50 configured to provide flow communication between thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48. For example, unused fuel supplied to either of thefirst bank46 or thesecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12 may be passed to the other bank of the two banks via thetransfer line50, thereby sharing fuel between thebanks46 and48.

As shown inFIG. 9, thesystem100 may also include, for one or more (e.g., each) of thehydraulic fracturing units12, acommunications cable assembly102 including a length ofcommunications cable104 connected to a respective one of thehydraulic fracturing units12 and configured to enable data communications between the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12 and adata center106 remote from the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12 or one or more additionalhydraulic fracturing units12.

For example, as shownFIG. 9, a datacenter communications cable108 may provide a communications link between thedata center106 and a first one of thehydraulic fracturing units12. Thehydraulic fracturing unit12 may include a length ofcommunications cable104 that extends to a next one of thehydraulic fracturing units12, and thathydraulic fracturing unit12 may include a length ofcommunications cable104 that extends to a next one of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may include a length ofcommunications cable104 for extending to a next one of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In this example fashion, each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be linked to one another and to thedata center104. As shown inFIG. 9, in some examples, a last-in-linehydraulic fracturing unit12 may include a length ofcommunications cable104 that runs to thedata center106, thus resulting in a continuous communications link, by which one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be in communication with thedata center104. In some examples, thedata center104 may be configured to transmit communications signals and/or receive communications signals, and the communications signals may include data indicative of operation of one or more of the plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12, including, for example, parameters associated with operation of thepumps18 and/or theGTEs20, as well as additional data related to other parameters associated with operation and/or testing of one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12.

In some examples, thecommunications cable104 may include a first end configured to be connected to a first unit interface connected to a respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. The length ofcommunications cable104 may also include a second end configured to be connected to a data center interface of thedata center106 or a second unit interface connected to another one of thehydraulic fracturing units12. One or more of the first end or the second end of the length ofcommunications cable104 may include or be provided with a quick connecter configured to be connected to one or more of the first unit interface or the data center interface, for example, as discussed herein with respect toFIG. 18.

In some examples, thecommunications cable assembly102 may also include a communications cable storage apparatus connected to the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12 and configured to store the length ofcommunications cable104 when not in use and to facilitate deployment of at least a portion of the length ofcommunications cable104 for connection to thedata center106 or the anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12. The communications cable storage apparatus may include a cable reel configured to be connected to thehydraulic fracturing unit12 and/or a cable support configured to be connected to thehydraulic fracturing unit12 and to receive windings of at least a portion of the length ofcommunications cable104.

As shown inFIG. 9, some examples of thesystem100 may also include apower cable assembly110 including a length ofpower cable112 connected to one or more (e.g., each) of thehydraulic fracturing units12 and configured to convey electric power between thehydraulic fracturing units12 and a remote electrical power source or one or more additionalhydraulic fracturing units12 of thehydraulic fracturing system16. For example, as shown inFIG. 9, a length ofpower cable112 is connected to each of thehydraulic fracturing units12, and each of the lengths ofpower cable112 are configured to be connected to a next-in-linehydraulic fracturing unit12. In some examples, the length ofpower cable112 may extend from onehydraulic fracturing unit12 to anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12 other than a next-in-linehydraulic fracturing unit12. One or more of the lengths ofpower cable112 may include a first end including a power plug configured to be received in a power socket, for example, as discussed herein with respect toFIG. 19.

In some examples, one or more of thepower cable assemblies110 may also include a power cable storage apparatus configured to be connected to the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. The power cable storage apparatus, in some examples, may be configured to store the length ofpower cable112 when not in use and to facilitate deployment of at least a portion of the length ofpower cable112 for use.

As shown inFIG. 9, each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 in the example shown includes a length ofpower cable112. In some such examples, each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 is configured to supply and/or generate its own electric power, for example, by operation of a generator connected to theGTE20 and/or to another source of mechanical power, such as another gas turbine engine or reciprocating piston engine (e.g., a diesel engine). In the example configuration shown inFIG. 9, the lengths ofpower cable112 run between each of thehydraulic fracturing units12, thus connecting all thehydraulic fracturing units12 to one another, such that power may be shared among at least some or all of thehydraulic fracturing units12. Thus, if one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 is unable to generate its own electric power or is unable to generate a sufficient amount of electric power to meet its operation requirements, electric power from one or more of the remaininghydraulic fracturing units12 may be used to mitigate or overcome the electric power deficit. As shown additional lengths ofpower cable114 may be included in thesystem100 to supply electric power between the twobanks46 and48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing anotherexample system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theexample system100 shown inFIG. 10 is similar to theexample system100 shown inFIG. 9, except that theexample system100 shown inFIG. 10 includes anelectrical power source116 located remotely from each of thehydraulic fracturing units12, for example, such that theelectrical power source116 is not mechanically connected directly to the chassis30 of one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, theelectrical power source116 may include one or more of one or more power generation devices or one or more batteries. For example, theelectrical power source116 may include one or more gensets (e.g., including an internal combustion engine-driven electrical generator) and/or one or more electric power storage devices, such as, for example, one or more batteries.

As shown inFIG. 10, theelectrical power source116 may be electrically coupled to one or more of thefirst bank46 or thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12 via an additional length ofpower cable114, and in some examples, thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48 ofhydraulic fracturing units12 may be, electrically coupled to one another via additional lengths ofpower cable114. In at least some such examples, even if one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 lacks electric power, electric power may be supplied to that particularhydraulic fracturing unit12 viapower cables104 and/or114, thereby providing an ability to continue operations of thehydraulic fracturing units12.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing afurther example system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theexample system100 shown inFIG. 11 may sometimes be referred to as a “hub and spoke” arrangement. In the example shown inFIG. 11, thesystem100 includes afuel source22 for supplying fuel to the plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12, and afuel hub118 for distributing the fuel from thefuel source22 to each of the plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12. For example, thefuel hub118 may be in flow communication with thefuel source22 via themain fuel lines86aand86b, and thefuel hub118 may be in flow communication with each of the fuelline connection assemblies14 of each of the respective hydraulic fracturing units12 (see, e.g.,FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 3). In the example shown, theinlet end34 of each of themanifold lines32 of the each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 is connected to an outlet of themain fuel line86, for example, via thefuel hub118. In some such examples, the outlet end36 of each of themanifold lines32 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12 is connected to a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end36 of themanifold line32.

In the example shown inFIG. 11, thesystem100 includes adata center106 located remotely from each of the hydraulic fracturing units12 (e.g., thedata center106 is not mechanically connected to the chassis30 of any of the hydraulic fracturing units12). Thedata center106 is communicatively connected to acommunications hub120, and each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 is communicatively connected to thecommunications hub120 by their respectivecommunications cable assemblies102, including therespective communications cables104.

In the example shown inFIG. 11, thesystem100 also includes apower hub122 electrically connected to each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 via the respectivepower cable assemblies110, including therespective power cables112. In some examples, thepower hub122 may be configured to supply electric power to any of thehydraulic fracturing units12 unable to supply its own electric power and/or unable to provide a sufficient amount of its own electric power. For example, at least some of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be configured to generate electric power, for example, via one or more genets mounted to the respective chassis30 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. Any excess electric power generated by one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be electrically communicated to thepower hub122 via the respectivepower cable assembly110. Such excess power may be electrically communicated from thepower hub122 to any of thehydraulic fracturing units12 lacking sufficient electric power via the respectivepower cable assembly110.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing anotherexample system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theexample system100 shown inFIG. 12 is similar to theexample system100 shown inFIG. 11, except that it includes afirst fuel hub118aand asecond fuel hub118b, afirst communications hub120aand asecond communications hub120b, and afirst power hub122aand asecond power hub122b, each respectively supplying fuel, communications, and electric power, to thefirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12 and thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12.

For example, a firstmain fuel line86amay provide flow communication from thefuel source22 to thefirst fuel hub118a, and the secondmain fuel line86bmay provide flow communication from thefuel source22 to thesecond fuel hub118b. The first andsecond fuel hubs118aand118bmay respectively supply fuel to each of themanifold lines32 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12 of each of the first andsecond banks46 and48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12. Thefirst communications hub120amay be communicatively connected to each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 of thefirst bank46, and thesecond communications hub120bmay be communicatively connected to each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 of thesecond bank48, for example, via thecommunications cable assembly102 of each of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, one or more of thefirst communications hub120aor thesecond communications hub120bmay be communicatively connected to thedata center104, for example, as shown inFIG. 12. In some examples, the first andsecond communications hubs120aand120bmay be communicatively linked via anintermediate communications cable124, for example, as shown inFIG. 12.

As shown inFIG. 12, each of the first andsecond power hubs122aand122bmay be electrically connected to thefirst bank46 andsecond bank48, respectively, of thehydraulic fracturing units12, for example, via the respectivepower cable assemblies110 of each of thehydraulic fracturing units12. As shown inFIG. 12, in some examples, thefirst power hub122aand thesecond power hub122bmay be electrically connected to one another via anintermediate power cable126. In some examples, the first andsecond power hubs122aand122bmay be configured to supply electric power to any of thehydraulic fracturing units12 unable to supply its own electric power and/or unable to provide a sufficient amount of its own electric power. For example, at least some of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be configured to generate electric power, for example, via one or more genets mounted to the respective chassis30 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing unit12. Any excess electric power generated by one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be electrically communicated to the first andsecond power hubs122aand122bvia the respectivepower cable assembly110. Such excess power may be electrically communicated from one or more of the first andsecond power hubs122aand/or122bto any of thehydraulic fracturing units12 lacking sufficient electric power via the respectivepower cable assembly110.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing afurther example system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The example system shown inFIG. 13 is similar to theexample system100 shown inFIG. 11, except that thesystem100 shown inFIG. 13 includes anelectrical power source116 located remote from the hydraulic fracturing units12 (e.g., not mechanically connected to any of the chassis30 of the hydraulic fracturing units12). Theelectrical power source116 may be electrically connected to thepower hub122 via an additional length ofpower cable114, and thepower hub122 may be electrically connected to each ofhydraulic fracturing units12 via their respectivepower cable assemblies110, for example, as shown inFIG. 13.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing anotherexample system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theexample system100 shown inFIG. 14 is similar to theexample system100 shown inFIG. 12, except that thesystem100 shown inFIG. 14 includes anelectrical power source116 located remote from the hydraulic fracturing units12 (e.g., not mechanically connected to any of the chassis30 of the hydraulic fracturing units12). Theelectrical power source116 may be electrically connected to the first powerhub power hub122avia a first additional length ofpower cable114a, and connected to the second powerhub power hub122bvia a second additional length ofpower cable114b. The first andsecond power hubs122aand122bmay be electrically connected to each ofhydraulic fracturing units12 via their respectivepower cable assemblies110, for example, as shown inFIG. 14.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing afurther example system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. In theexample system100 shown inFIG. 15, thesystem100 may include amain fuel manifold128 in flow communication with thefuel supply22 via a firstmain fuel line86aand a secondmain fuel line86b. In some examples, themain fuel manifold128 may be mounted on a trailer or a truck body for portability (e.g., on a high-pressure iron manifold trailer) or supported by the ground. In the example shown, themain fuel manifold128 includes afirst fuel line130aand asecond fuel line130brunning along the length of themain fuel manifold128. In some examples, each of the first andsecond fuel lines130aand130bmay include a plurality of valves, each of which may be in flow communication with arespective manifold line32 of each of thehydraulic fracturing units12. Thefirst fuel line130amay be configured to supply fuel to thefirst bank46 ofhydraulic fracturing units12, and thesecond fuel line130bmay be configured to supply fuel to thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12, for example, via therespective manifold lines32 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, thefirst fuel line130aand thesecond fuel line130bmay be in flow communication with one another via an intermediate fuel line132, which, in some examples, may assist with equalizing pressure and/or volume between thefirst fuel line130aand thesecond fuel line130b.

Theexample system100 shown inFIG. 15 also includes acommunications harness134 in communication with thedata center106, for example, via afirst communications cable136aand asecond communications cable136b. In some examples, thecommunications harness134 may be mounted on a trailer or a truck body for portability (e.g., on a high-pressure iron manifold trailer) or supported by the ground. In some examples, thecommunications harness134 may include a plurality of connection points along its length configured to facilitate connection to acommunications cable104 from each of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12 to provide a communications link between each of thehydraulic fracturing units12 and thedata center106. As shown, some examples of thecommunications harness134 may include afirst communications harness134aand asecond communications harness134bconfigured to respectively provide communications links with thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12.

As shown inFIG. 15, theexample system100 also includes apower harness138 in electrical communication with the plurality ofpower cables112 of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, thepower harness138 may be mounted on a trailer or a truck body for portability (e.g., on a high-pressure iron manifold trailer) or supported by the ground. In some examples, thepower harness138 may include a plurality of power receptacles located along its length and configured to facilitate connection with a power plug of arespective power cable112 from each of the respectivehydraulic fracturing units12 to provide a power link between each of thehydraulic fracturing units12. In some examples, any excess electric power generated by one or more of thehydraulic fracturing units12 may be electrically supplied to thepower harness138 via the respectivepower cable assembly110. Such excess power may be electrically communicated to any of thehydraulic fracturing units12 lacking sufficient electric power via the respectivepower cable assembly110.

In the example shown inFIG. 15, thepower harness138 includes a firstpower harness line140aand a secondpower harness line140bconfigured to supply electric power to thefirst bank46 and thesecond bank48 of thehydraulic fracturing units12, respectively. In some examples, an intermediate power cable142 may be provided to electrically connect the firstpower harness line140aand the secondpower harness line140bto one another, for example, so that electric power may be shared between the firstpower harness line140aand the secondpower harness line140b.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing anotherexample system100 for supplying fuel, enabling communications, and conveying electric power associated with operation of a plurality ofhydraulic fracturing units12 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Theexample system100 is similar to theexample system100 shown inFIG. 15, except that that the example 100 shown inFIG. 16 includes anelectrical power source116 located remote from the hydraulic fracturing units12 (e.g., not mechanically connected to any of the chassis30 of the hydraulic fracturing units12). Theelectrical power source116 may be electrically connected to the first and secondpower harness lines140aand140bvia first and second additional lengths ofpower cable114aand114b, respectively. The first and secondpower harness lines140aand140bmay be electrically connected to each ofhydraulic fracturing units12 via their respectivepower cable assemblies110, for example, as shown inFIG. 16.

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of an examplequick connect coupling144 for coupling twofuel lines146 to one another shown in an uncoupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure.FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the examplequick connect coupling144 shown inFIG. 17A shown in a coupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure. Thequick connect coupling144 may be used with themanifold lines32 disclosed herein, for example, to couple aninlet end34 of a firstmanifold line32 to anoutlet end36 of a fuel line in flow communication with a fuel source and/or to anoutlet end36 of anothermanifold line32 of anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12 upstream relative to the firstmanifold line32. In addition, the outlet end36 of the firstmanifold line32 may be coupled to aninlet end34 of yet anothermanifold line32 of yet anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12 downstream relative to the firstmanifold line32 or to a blocking device configured to prevent flow communication from the outlet end of the firstmanifold line32. This example configuration may facilitate use of themanifold line32 to connectmanifold lines32 of multiplehydraulic fracturing units12 in series or individually to a fuel line from a fuel source.

As shown inFIG. 17A, anoutlet end36 of a firstmanifold line32 may include anoutlet coupling44 of thequick connect coupling144, and theinlet end34 of asecond manifold line32 may include aninlet coupling40 of thequick connect coupling144. In some examples, this may be reversed. As shown inFIG. 17A, theexample outlet coupling44 may include anannular recess146 configured to receive anannular projection148 of theinlet coupling40. In some examples, theoutlet coupling44 may also include a handle150 (e.g., an annular handle) configured to facilitate rotation of theoutlet coupling44 relative to theinlet coupling40, once theannular projection148 is received in theannular recess146 of theoutlet coupling44. Theannular projection148 may define a groove or slot152 configured to receive apin154 associated with theannular recess146. When coupling theoutlet coupling44 to theinlet coupling40, theannular projection148 is inserted into theannular recess146, such that thepin154 is aligned with a leading edge of the groove orslot152, so that theannular projection148 can be inserted into theannular recess146, while twisting theoutlet coupling44 relative to theinlet coupling40, so that thepin154 travels in the groove orslot152 until thepin154 is able to engage anotch156 in the groove orslot152, thereby locking the rotational relationship between theoutlet coupling44 and theinlet coupling40, for example, as shown inFIG. 17B, which shows theexample couplings40 and44 engaged with one another. In some examples, the groove orslot152 may be configured such that theoutlet coupling44 engages with theinlet coupling40 upon twisting theoutlet coupling44 about one-quarter turn relative to theinlet coupling40. Other amounts of relative twist for coupling are contemplated. In some examples, thequick connect coupling144 may include one or more fluid seals configured to prevent fuel from leaking from thequick connect coupling144. In some examples, the quick connect coupling shown inFIGS. 17A and 17B may include a pressure safety lock.

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of one-half of another examplequick connect coupling144 for coupling two fuel lines to one another shown in an uncoupled condition according to embodiments of the disclosure. The example one-halfquick connect coupling144 shown inFIG. 17C may be configured to threadedly engage another half of the quick connect coupling144 (e.g., via complimentary male and female threads). In some examples, thequick connect coupling144 shown inFIG. 17C may include a transfer-loading safety quick coupler.

In some examples, thequick connect coupling144 may facilitate quickly coupling two or moremanifold lines32 to one another, and/or quickly coupling amanifold line32 to a fuel line from a fuel source, to a fuel hub, and/or to a blocking device configured to prevent the flow of fuel from the outlet end of themanifold line32. This may facilitate connection and/or disconnection ofmanifold lines32 during set-up or break-down of thehydraulic fracturing system16. In some examples, thequick connect coupling144 may facilitate such set-up and assembly without the use of tools. In some examples, thequick connect couplings144 may help prevent improperly coupling two inlets to one another or two outlets to one another, which may prevent unintended problems with the fuel delivery system.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example communications coupling158 for coupling a communications cable from one device to another device according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some examples, thecommunications coupling158 may be configured to couple an end of a length ofcommunications cable104 of acommunications assembly102 associated with ahydraulic fracturing unit12 to a communications interface of, for example, anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12, a communications interface at adata center106, and/or a communications interface at acommunications hub120, for example, such as those described herein. Thecommunications coupling158 may, in some examples, be configured to provide a weather-tight quick connection, for example, such as a mil-spec connector. Thecommunications coupling158 may include a mating pair (e.g., a plug and a receptacle), including a male (e.g., pin) or female (e.g., socket) contact. In some examples, one or more of the coupling halves (e.g., the male or female halves) and/or the respective contacts may be floating, for example, to minimize mechanical stress at thecoupling158. In some examples, thecommunication cables104 may have a capacity ranging from 12 volts to 24 volts and may be shielded to prevent communication from high power energy sources from distorting signals communicated via thecommunications cables104.

In some examples, thecommunications coupling158 may facilitate quickly communicatively coupling two or more devices or machines to one another. This may facilitate connection and/or disconnection ofcommunications cables104 during set-up or break-down of thehydraulic fracturing system16. In some examples, thecommunications coupling158 may facilitate such set-up and assembly without the use of tools. In some examples, thecommunications couplings158 may be configured to have unique communication coupling pairs to prevent coupling thecommunications cable104 into an incorrect receptacle, thereby reducing the likelihood of an incorrect rigging and incorrect transfer of data. Other types of communications couplings are contemplated.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of anexample power coupling160 configured to couple apower cable112 to a device according to embodiments of the disclosure. As shown inFIG. 19, thepower coupling160 may include apower plug162 connected to an end of apower cable112, and apower receptacle164. For example, thepower cable112 may be connected to a firsthydraulic fracturing unit12, and thepower receptacle164 may be connected to anotherhydraulic fracturing unit12, apower hub122, and/or anelectrical power source116. Thepower plug162 may be configured to be inserted into apower receptacle164 to provide electric power transfer between a device or machine coupled to thepower cable112 andpower plug162, and the device or machine coupled to thepower receptacle164. In some examples, thepower coupling160 include a shore power connector-type that may be configured to be water-proof, locking, and/or capable of handling three-phase, 480 volts, and/or 400 amps, although power couplings of other types and/or having different capabilities are contemplated.

In some examples, thepower coupling160 may facilitate quickly electrically coupling two or more devices or machines to one another. This may facilitate connection and/or disconnection ofpower cables112 during set-up or break-down of thehydraulic fracturing system16. In some examples, thepower coupling160 may facilitate such set-up and assembly without the use of tools.

Having now described some illustrative embodiments of the invention, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is merely illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example only. Numerous modifications and other embodiments are within the scope of one of ordinary skill in the art and are contemplated as falling within the scope of the invention. In particular, although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the parameters and configurations described herein are exemplary and that actual parameters and/or configurations will depend on the specific application in which the systems and techniques of the invention are used. Those skilled in the art should also recognize or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention. It is, therefore, to be understood that the embodiments described herein are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of any appended claims and equivalents thereto, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described.

This application is a divisional of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/929,708, filed May 18, 2020, titled “FUEL, COMMUNICATIONS, AND POWER CONNECTION SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/900,100, filed Sep. 13, 2019, titled “ON BOARDING HOSES AND ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS,” U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/900,112, filed Sep. 13, 2019, titled “FUEL LINE CONNECTION SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR SAME,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/704,401, filed May 8, 2020, titled “FUEL, COMMUNICATIONS, AND POWER CONNECTION SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS,” the entire disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure shall be construed to cover various modifications, combinations, additions, alterations, etc., above and to the above-described embodiments, which shall be considered to be within the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, various features and characteristics as discussed herein may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiment, and numerous variations, modifications, and additions further can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (12)

What is claimed is:

1. A fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to one or more gas turbine engines connected to one or more pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system, the fuel delivery system comprising:

a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies each comprising:

a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end;

an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with a fuel source;

an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line;

a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and a first gas turbine engine; and

a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow, the valve further configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine,

wherein:

a first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly;

a second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly;

a third fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a third outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly; and

the fuel source is positioned in flow communication with a hub comprising the first outlet coupling of the fuel source, the second outlet coupling of the fuel source, and the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

2. A fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to one or more gas turbine engines connected to one or more pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system, the fuel delivery system comprising:

a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies each comprising:

a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end;

an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with a fuel source;

an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line;

a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and a first gas turbine engine; and

a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow, the valve further configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine,

wherein:

a first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly;

a second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly;

a third fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a third outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly;

the fuel source is positioned in flow communication with a first hub and a second hub;

the first hub comprises the first outlet coupling of the fuel source and the second outlet coupling of the fuel source; and

the second hub comprises the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

3. A fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to one or more gas turbine engines connected to one or more pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system, the fuel delivery system comprising:

a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies each comprising:

a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end;

an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with a fuel source;

an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line;

a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and a first gas turbine engine; and

a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow, the valve further configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine,

wherein the fuel source is positioned in flow communication with a hub comprising a first outlet coupling of the fuel source and a second outlet coupling of the fuel source, and

wherein:

a first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly; and

a second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with one of an outlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly or a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly.

4. The fuel delivery system ofclaim 3, wherein:

the second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with the outlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly; and

a third fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with an outlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly.

5. The fuel delivery system ofclaim 3, wherein a third fuel line connection assembly also is positioned in flow communication with a third outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly.

6. The fuel delivery system ofclaim 5, wherein the hub further comprises the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

7. The fuel delivery system ofclaim 5, wherein the hub comprises a first hub, and wherein:

the fuel source is in flow communication with a second hub; and

the second hub comprises the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

8. A fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to one or more gas turbine engines connected to one or more pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system, the fuel delivery system comprising:

a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies each comprising:

a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end;

an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with a fuel source;

an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line;

a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and a first gas turbine engine; and

a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow,

wherein:

a first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly;

a second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly;

a third fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with an outlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly;

the third fuel line connection assembly also is positioned in flow communication with a third outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly; and

the fuel source is positioned in flow communication with a hub comprising the first outlet coupling of the fuel source, the second outlet coupling of the fuel source, and the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

9. A fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to one or more gas turbine engines connected to one or more pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system, the fuel delivery system comprising:

a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies each comprising:

a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end;

an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with a fuel source;

an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line;

a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and a first gas turbine engine; and

a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow,

wherein:

a first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly;

a second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly;

a third fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with an outlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly;

the third fuel line connection assembly also is positioned in flow communication with a third outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly;

the fuel source is in flow communication with a first hub and a second hub;

the first hub comprises the first outlet coupling of the fuel source and the second outlet coupling of the fuel source; and

the second hub comprises the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

10. A fuel delivery system configured to supply fuel to one or more gas turbine engines connected to one or more pumps of a hydraulic fracturing system, the fuel delivery system comprising:

a plurality of fuel line connection assemblies each comprising:

a manifold line defining an inlet end, an outlet end, and a flow path for fuel extending between the inlet end and the outlet end;

an inlet coupling proximate the inlet end and configured to be connected to a fuel line providing flow communication with a fuel source;

an outlet coupling proximate the outlet end and configured to be connected to one of an inlet end of another manifold line or a blocking device configured to prevent flow from the outlet end of the manifold line;

a distribution line connected to the manifold line and configured to provide flow communication between the manifold line and a first gas turbine engine; and

a valve in one of the manifold line or the distribution line and configured to change between an open condition through which fluid flows and a closed condition preventing fluid flow, the valve further configured to one of facilitate flow communication or prevent flow communication between the fuel source and the first gas turbine engine,

wherein the fuel source is positioned in flow communication with a hub comprising a first outlet coupling of the fuel source, a second outlet coupling of the fuel source, and a third outlet coupling of the fuel source, and

wherein:

a first fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with a first outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly;

a second fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with one of an outlet coupling of the first fuel line connection assembly or a second outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly; and

a third fuel line connection assembly of the plurality of fuel line connection assemblies is positioned in flow communication with an outlet coupling of the second fuel line connection assembly via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly.

11. The fuel delivery system ofclaim 10, wherein the third fuel line connection assembly also is positioned in flow communication with the third outlet coupling of the fuel source via an inlet coupling of the third fuel line connection assembly.

12. The fuel delivery system ofclaim 11, wherein the hub comprises a first hub, and wherein:

the fuel source is in flow communication with a second hub; and

the second hub comprises the third outlet coupling of the fuel source.

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